Review of ex-lawmaker stirs debate in Kentucky House

Two Kentucky Republicans who served on a special investigative state House committee accused majority Democrats of disbanding the panel last year without fully investigating sexual harassment allegations against former Rep. John Arnold.

FRANKFORT, Ky. -- Fallout from a special committee's lack of action against a disgraced former Kentucky lawmaker has spurred a lengthy debate in the state House.

Two Republicans who served on the special investigative House committee accused majority Democrats of disbanding the panel last year without fully investigating allegations against former Rep. John Arnold.

The Sturgis Democrat was accused of sexually harassing legislative staffers.

The Republican members on Tuesday accused their colleagues of hiding behind the advice of attorneys.

The panel concluded it had no legal authority because Arnold resigned.

Democratic Rep. Arnold Simpson, who served on the committee, said some members wanted to "go on a hunting expedition" beyond the scope of the committee's task.

Simpson said lawmakers need to put the matter behind them and focus on pressing state issues.